by Yes, you read that correctly. Contrary to popular belief, Hanukkah is not a Jewish Christmas. In fact, it has absolutely nothing to do with Christmas at all. Yet in a few short weeks, many well-meaning teachers will start teaching about Christmas Around the World and include Hanukkah in the mix. Why? There are many […]
Purim: How We Celebrate a Festive Redemption
by Purim is not the Jewish festival of Passover, when our people escaped slavery to be free. It is not about the oil burning longer than imagined and restoring the temple. Purim is not about presents though we give bundles and presents to those who are in need. It is not spinning a dreidel or casting […]
Rosh Hashanah family traditions: Apples and honey for a healthy and sweet New Year
by In our family, we celebrate the “New Year” twice a year. On December 31, we try to stay up late so we can shout “Happy New Year” as the clock strikes midnight (or at least until the ball drops in Times Square in New York City at 11 pm our time). This year, we […]